Hillsides in your yard can be both a beautiful and challenging feature. Without proper stabilization, they are prone to erosion, which can lead to a host of problems. However, by choosing the right plants, you can not only prevent erosion but also enhance the aesthetic appeal of these areas. Here are 15 of the best plants for hillsides.
1. Creeping Juniper (Juniperus horizontalis)
This evergreen groundcover is an excellent choice for stabilizing slopes. Its low – growing, spreading habit helps hold the soil in place. The branches of the creeping juniper form a dense mat that can withstand the forces of water runoff. It comes in various cultivars with different foliage colors, from green to blue – green, adding a touch of color to the hillside throughout the year.
2. Ajuga (Ajuga reptans)
Ajuga is a fast – growing groundcover with beautiful foliage. It has rosettes of leaves that are often variegated, creating an attractive pattern. In the spring, it produces spikes of blue or purple flowers. The thick growth of ajuga helps to slow down water flow and bind the soil, making it great for controlling erosion on gentle slopes.
3. Daylilies (Hemerocallis spp.)
Daylilies are tough and adaptable perennials. Their fibrous root systems are extensive and help hold the soil together. They are available in a wide range of colors and bloom times, adding a splash of color to the hillside during the growing season. The clumping nature of daylilies also provides some stability to the slope.
4. Sedum (Sedum spp.)
Sedums are succulent plants that are well – suited for hillside planting. They have thick, fleshy leaves that can store water, making them drought – tolerant. Their shallow root systems spread out widely, anchoring the soil. Stonecrop sedum, for example, forms a dense mat and comes in various colors, from green to red – tinted, depending on the species.
5. Wild Thyme (Thymus serpyllum)
Wild thyme is a low – growing, aromatic herb. It has tiny, oval – shaped leaves and produces small, purple – pink flowers in the summer. The dense growth of wild thyme helps to prevent soil from being washed away. Its roots penetrate the soil and hold it firmly, and the pleasant fragrance it gives off is an added bonus.
6. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
Yarrow is a hardy perennial with feathery foliage. It has a deep root system that helps it access water and also stabilizes the soil. The flat – topped clusters of flowers, which come in various colors such as white, yellow, and pink, attract butterflies and other pollinators. Yarrow can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, making it suitable for many hillside environments.
7. Ornamental Grasses
Grasses like fountain grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides) and blue fescue (Festuca glauca) are great for hillsides. Their extensive root systems hold the soil firmly. Ornamental grasses also add movement and texture to the landscape. The swaying of the grass in the wind can help break up the force of rainwater, reducing erosion.
8. Black – Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
This native wildflower has bright yellow petals with a dark brown or black center. The strong stems and deep root system of black – eyed Susan make it a good choice for slopes. It can tolerate some drought and is a great addition to a more natural – looking hillside planting, attracting bees and other beneficial insects.
9. Coreopsis (Coreopsis spp.)
Coreopsis is known for its bright, daisy – like flowers that come in various colors, including yellow, pink, and red. It has a fibrous root system that helps hold the soil. Coreopsis is a relatively low – maintenance plant that can thrive in sunny, well – drained hillside locations.
10. Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
Russian sage is a tall, airy perennial with silvery – gray foliage. It has a deep root system that helps stabilize the soil. The plant’s height and spread make it suitable for larger hillside areas. The lavender – blue flowers add a soft color and a touch of elegance to the landscape during the summer months.
11. Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum)
Switchgrass is a native prairie grass that is highly effective at erosion control. It can grow quite tall and has a strong root system that penetrates deep into the soil. The upright growth habit of switchgrass helps to slow down water runoff and trap sediment, making it ideal for steeper slopes.
12. Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia)
Virginia creeper is a vigorous vine that can quickly cover a hillside. It has adhesive pads that allow it to cling to surfaces. The plant’s extensive root system helps hold the soil in place. In the fall, the leaves turn a brilliant red, adding a spectacular display of color. However, be careful as it can be invasive in some areas, so monitor its growth.
13. Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
Purple coneflower is a popular perennial with large, daisy – like flowers. The central cone is spiky and adds an interesting texture. The deep taproot of the purple coneflower helps it survive in various soil conditions and also contributes to slope stabilization. It is also a great plant for attracting birds and butterflies.
14. Bee Balm (Monarda didyma)
Bee balm has showy, tubular flowers that are usually red, pink, or purple. It has a square stem and a spreading root system. The plant’s foliage has a pleasant minty aroma. Bee balm attracts bees, hummingbirds, and other pollinators. Its root system helps hold the soil on the hillside and prevent erosion.
15. Ground Ivy (Glechoma hederacea)
Ground ivy is a low – growing, creeping plant with round, scalloped leaves. It spreads quickly and forms a dense mat. The roots of ground ivy hold the soil firmly, making it useful for stabilizing small slopes. However, it can be invasive in some areas, so use caution and manage its growth if necessary.
When planting these plants on hillsides, it’s important to prepare the soil properly, water them well during the establishment period, and consider using mulch to further reduce erosion. By incorporating these plants into your hillside landscape, you can create a stable and beautiful environment.
